Hakushu 12 Year Old Japanese Whisky
Hakushu 12 Year Old Japanese Whisky is a 12-year-old single malt from Suntory's Hakushu Distillery in Japan's Southern Alps — 43% ABV (86 proof), 750mL. Distilled from 100% malted barley with pristine alpine spring water and a touch of lightly peated malt, it is celebrated for its fresh, green, forest-driven character — a profile unlike any other major Japanese single malt. Order online from Del Mesa Liquor and taste why Hakushu 12 is one of the most iconic age-stated whiskies Japan has ever produced.
- ABV: 43% (86 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: 12 years minimum
- Style: Japanese single malt, lightly peated
- Distillery: Hakushu, Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture (est. 1973, Suntory)
- Casks: American oak, sherry casks, and Japanese Mizunara oak
The Forest Distillery of the Japanese Alps
Established in 1973, Hakushu Distillery sits 700 meters up in the forests of Mount Kaikomagatake, in one of Japan's most pristine natural environments. The site was chosen for its ultra-soft, granite-filtered mountain spring water — among the purest distilling waters in the world — and a cool, damp forest microclimate that slows maturation and shapes a delicate spirit. The distillery's variety of pot still shapes and cask types, including rare Mizunara oak, builds the multi-layered complexity that made Hakushu 12 Suntory's flagship expression of its "green and fresh" house style. Discover more Japanese whisky and browse the full Hakushu lineup.
Tasting Notes
Hakushu 12 greets you with an aromatic, complex nose of green apple, fresh mint, cucumber, and gentle peat smoke. The palate is crisp and smooth — pear, honey, lime zest, and vanilla cream woven with fresh herbs and a refined, integrated smokiness that sets it apart from most Japanese single malts. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering light smoke and delicate oak — bright, elegant, and endlessly sippable.
How to Enjoy
Savor Hakushu 12 neat to appreciate its fresh herbal layers, or add a few drops of water to reveal bright fruit and soft smoke. It also excels in a Japanese highball — pour over a tall glass of ice, top with chilled soda water, and let its crispness shine on a warm day. Pair with sushi, light seafood, mild cheeses, or herb-driven dishes, or explore other pours in our Japanese whisky collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hakushu 12 peated?
Yes — lightly. Hakushu incorporates a peated malt component, which is distinctive among major Japanese single malts. The smoke is gentle and fully integrated, more like a whisper of fresh herbs and forest air than the heavy peat of Islay Scotch.
What's the difference between Hakushu 12 and Yamazaki 12?
Both are Suntory 12-year-old single malts, but they showcase opposite house styles: Yamazaki 12 leans richer, fruitier, and sherry-influenced, while Hakushu 12 is fresher, greener, and lightly smoky — the "forest" character of its high-altitude distillery.
What does the 12-year age statement mean?
The "12 Year Old" on the label means the youngest whisky in the bottle was matured for a full 12 years. Hakushu 12 blends malt whiskies from American oak, sherry, and Mizunara casks, all at least 12 years old.
How should I drink Hakushu 12?
Neat or with a few drops of water for full appreciation, or in a highball (one part whisky to three parts chilled soda over ice) for a refreshing long drink. It pairs beautifully with sushi and delicate seafood.
Buy Hakushu 12 Year Old online at Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA — San Diego's source for authentic Japanese whisky, available for delivery or pickup.
